Bookham Country Market

It’s New Year, a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to what lies ahead. Despite the current financial situation trading throughout the year has continued in a positive manner and we have been pleased to notice the number of new faces who have gradually become familiar. One couple I spoke to had moved to Bookham from Nottingham and as that was my home town it was a good talking point. They have become regular customers which is very satisfying. It’s so good on Friday mornings to open the door at 10.15am to an expectant queue and quite disappointing on the few days when it’s ‘a bit thin’. They’re all very polite so there’s usually some discussion as to who should go in first.

The Market enjoyed Village Day and is looking forward to the next one in June but no one seems too keen on donning their running shorts or leotards by way of a costume. We shall have to get our thinking caps on for that one! Churches Together in Bookham’s Open Evening was also successful as we get to meet many of those people who are unable to visit the market on Friday mornings.

Sadly we had to say goodbye to three producers at the end of the year. Faith had finished as the master Victoria Sandwich, pastry and marmalade maker some time ago but had continued to help behind the counter. She decided that she really couldn’t manage to come in any more. Sue and Richard who were responsible for the amazing range of chutneys and jam have finally decided to make their main home in Spain. Looking outside at this moment in time I can understand why. Finally Pam, cake maker and brilliant cake decorator has decided to move down to Devon to be nearer her son. However, if you happen to be in Barnstaple on a Friday morning do call in at the Pannier Market and there you will find that Barnstaple Country Market has a stall, which Pam hopes to join. Our loss will be their gain. They will all be missed and I’m sure you would join with me in thanking them for the delicious items they have produced over many years.

It usually happens that as people leave new producers come along. So if you have excellent culinary skills now would be an ideal time to join the market. Come along any Friday morning and see what the set-up is, talk to Gill the Market Manager and she will explain the procedure for becoming a producer. For our customers you will still find the wide variety of baked goods and preserves as our regular cooks take on the challenge of increasing production.

Bookham Country Market is at the Old Barn Hall Friday mornings: 10.15–11.30am (except for Easter when we open on Maundy Thursday) - refreshments and free parking.

Ann Tomlinson